Awarded to someone aged 21 or under who has given up their free time to help make a lasting impact and grow the game, Keary fits that remit and more.
A dedicated member of the North West's Female Basketball Association, Keary gives up multiple nights per-week to help with sessions across the Greater Manchester area, lending an enthusiasm and energy to everything she does.
On top of that, she also set up her own junior boys team for year five and six students, coaching that team once a week in training, plus games on a Saturday afternoon.
It is perhaps the biggest testament to Keary's impact on the sport that nearly 50 nominations came through for her in this category, a runaway high for any of the 2023 awards.
All contained a familiar theme of passion for basketball, an inspirational attitude and a selfless approach to her own time for the advancement of others.
"Matilda loves basketball so much, however I think she loves coaching even more," starts one of the nominations.
"She absolutely adores the kids and takes pride in seeing them achieve their basketball goals, and she loves helping the girls improve their skills and build confidence in their game.
"Matilda loves basketball so much, and she gives up all of her time just to help the kids she coaches.
"She is truly an inspiration in the way she balances all of her own school work and basketball coaching for anyone who needs it."
A massive well done goes to Keary, as well as Ethan Philipson (South West) and Ali Adnanjanjua (Yorkshire), who also impressed to make the national shortlist.
Keary's award continues a two week period where national recipients of the 2023 Basketball England Awards are being announced.
Winners from across BE's ten regions were announced in March, with those recipients then shortlisted to narrow down the field for each national winner.
Keary and others will be recognised for their achievements over the coming days, leading up to another cohort of selections receiving the prestigious "Services to Basketball" award on Sunday, 9 June 2024.
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